The number of live shows Weathervane Playhouse will be able to produce on its mainstage will depend on when it will able to re-open safely. Because there are so many unknowns at this time, Weathervane is focusing on alternate ways to fulfill its mission: to enrich quality of life and engage the community through theatre and education.
After converting its spring and summer educational programming to virtual formats, Weathervane will continue to offer virtual programming this fall.
In lieu of onstage theatrical performances, Weathervane is producing several short film projects, partnering with other Akron and Northeast Ohio institutions.
Three short pieces from “The Airport Plays” by Scott Mullen, whose 10-minute plays have been performed from London to New York to Los Angeles and many places in between. All three scripts will be filmed at the Akron Canton Airport, which partnered with Weathervane Playhouse. The three titles of the upcoming pieces are “Baggage,” “Stuck,” and “My Cellphone Says You’re My Soulmate.”
Next, Weathervane takes to the field at Canal Park, home of the Akron RubberDucks. “Judgement Call” features three baseball umpires as they warm up for a new season, debating their roles and the value of America’s pastime.
Many safety protocols were followed in creating these films, including Zoom rehearsals, casting actors from the same “pod” and working with a tech crew in two “pods,” as well as social distancing of those not within a “pod,” masks, disinfecting, temperature checks, a supervising COVID compliance team, and more.
Performances will be aired online throughout September and October, interspersed with cabaret performances and interviews from Weathervane’s past and future shows. Watch Weathervane’s website, WeathervanePlayhouse.com, and its Facebook page for details.
